Candidates make voters succcessful

Although most of us might still be trying to clear our heads from last fall's election cycle, just two-and-a-half weeks remain before the candidate deadline for important local elections. Those wishing to file for Eudora City Council or the Eudora USD 491 Board of Education must do so by noon Jan. 23.

As of Tuesday, USD 491 board member Greg Neis had filed for re-election, making him the only candidate to have filed for either the four board positions or three city council seats on the ballot this spring. It is our hope robust slates of candidates develop for both bodies in the next fortnight.

For our electoral system to work effectively, talented individuals have to step forward. This can be a challenge on the local level where the prestige of serving may not outweigh the time-consuming commitment or negative comment from friends and neighbors.

There is certainly a lot to debate in both the city and the school district. Both would be best served if enough candidates filed to force a debate on those issues before a February primary. We remain confident that the best candidates committed to full and honest debate do prevail.

Among the issues city council candidates will address are the downtown revitalization plan, a TIF district to spur development and the entwined concerns of future infrastructure needs and how they are paid for.

The school board races will focus on bond issues and the related issues of the disposal or reuse of district property.

There is a great deal of talent in Eudora. We are optimistic fresh approaches to city and school district issues can be found if the right people make the commitment to run.